BMI OrganBank Secures Significant NIH Grant for Kidney Preservation
BMI OrganBank is on the brink of a breakthrough in organ preservation technology that has the potential to transform kidney transplants. The company has secured a substantial $3.5 million Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This funding will propel the advancement of their pioneering kidney preservation systems and prepare them for clinical trials, ultimately aiming for FDA approval.
Collaborative Efforts to Enhance Organ Quality
The grant comes in light of encouraging preclinical results obtained from BMI OrganBank’s collaboration with Duke University's Ex Vivo Organ Laboratory. These studies have highlighted the capabilities of their warm perfusion system, which enhances organ quality assessment and extends ex-vivo preservation durations for kidneys. Such advancements are vital as they could increase the number of viable kidneys available for transplant amid a national shortage.
Addressing the Organ Transplant Demand
Every year, countless registered organ donors pass away, yet a significant number of their kidneys remain unutilized. Presently, nearly 90,000 individuals await kidney transplants in the United States alone. This shortage could be mitigated by effectively utilizing organs from older donors or those who experienced circulatory death. Traditional preservation methods involving cold storage hinder the assessment of kidney quality prior to transplantation, which often discourages their clinical use.
Revolutionary Warm Perfusion Technology
BMI OrganBank's warm perfusion platform represents a significant shift in organ preservation techniques. By providing an innovative method to preserve kidneys outside the body, this technology allows for improved evaluations of organ quality and facilitates longer preservation times. Such features promise to enhance the number of kidneys available for transplants, directly tackling the urgent need for organ donors.
Leadership and Expertise Driving Progress
Robert Neusner, the President and Chief Operating Officer of BMI OrganBank, is co-leading this vital initiative alongside acclaimed transplant and nephrology experts, Dr. Andrew Barbas from Duke University and Dr. Prabir Roy-Chaudhury from the University of North Carolina. Their collective expertise is instrumental in optimizing the device for clinical application, validating its potential to revolutionize kidney transplant outcomes.
Gratitude for NIH Support
"Receiving this generous NIH grant is an exciting milestone for BMI OrganBank," expressed Carrie DiMarzio, Chief Executive Officer. "It accelerates our journey to enhance kidney preservation and addresses the pressing demand for donated kidneys. Collaborating with distinguished partners like Duke and UNC demonstrates our unwavering commitment to advancing medical solutions that save lives."
About BMI OrganBank
BMI OrganBank is dedicated to developing cutting-edge organ preservation and evaluation technologies. With research facilities located in the Innovation Accelerator at the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, the company aims to innovate methods that expand the transplantation capabilities of organs and tissues. Its first launch will feature the OrganBank Transport device, developed in collaboration with Duke University researchers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of BMI OrganBank's grant?
The grant aims to advance the company's kidney preservation technology towards clinical trials and FDA approval.
How does the warm perfusion technology benefit kidney transplants?
This technology helps improve organ quality assessment and extends preservation times, potentially increasing organ availability for transplant.
Why is there a need for better kidney preservation methods?
Many donated kidneys go unused due to quality assessment challenges and preservation limitations, which this technology seeks to address.
Who are the key players in this project?
Robert Neusner leads the project alongside experts, Dr. Andrew Barbas from Duke University and Dr. Prabir Roy-Chaudhury from UNC.
What is BMI OrganBank's mission?
To innovate in organ preservation technologies and increase the availability of organs for transplantation, ultimately saving lives.
